Devastating Fire Engulfs Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana Resort
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – May 25, 2025
In a harrowing scene that unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, the renowned Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana was engulfed in flames, leaving devastation in its wake and prompting a massive emergency response effort from local authorities and resort personnel.
At approximately 2:45 AM, guests reported the smell of smoke and the sound of fire alarms blaring through the luxurious beachfront resort. Within minutes, flames were visibly roaring from the eastern wing of the resort, where a majority of the suites and restaurants are located. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes of guests fleeing their rooms in sleepwear, some clutching luggage, others only their passports and phones, as staff urgently directed them to safety zones.
The fire, which raged for more than six hours, is now under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest it may have been sparked by an electrical malfunction in one of the resort’s main kitchens, though authorities have not ruled out other possibilities.
A Night of Horror
“It was like a nightmare. We were woken up by loud knocking and people yelling, ‘Get out, get out!’ I looked out the window and saw the sky glowing orange,” said Jessica Morales, a honeymooner from New Jersey. “We barely made it down the stairwell before smoke filled the hallway.”
According to the Dominican Republic’s National Emergency and Security Assistance System (9-1-1), more than 130 firefighters, 25 emergency vehicles, and 12 ambulances were dispatched to the resort. Local hospitals, including Punta Cana Medical Center, were placed on high alert to receive potential victims.
Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, but 27 guests and staff were treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. Three individuals remain under medical observation. Resort management confirmed that all 640 guests were safely evacuated, with personnel going door to door in an effort that local officials described as “heroic.”
Extensive Damage
Images captured by drones at sunrise revealed a sobering scene: charred remains of luxury villas, scorched palm trees, and collapsed wooden decks. The fire appeared to have gutted a large section of the main building, including the buffet restaurant, parts of the spa, and several oceanview suites.
Fire Chief Luis Antonio Ramírez stated in a press conference, “The structure of the resort allowed the fire to travel rapidly through the thatched roofs and wooden walkways. Our crews fought through the night to contain it before it spread to the nearby Secrets Cap Cana and surrounding properties.”
While the blaze has been extinguished, smoldering hotspots remain, and officials have cordoned off the entire premises for safety inspections and further investigation.
Guests Relocated
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana, a five-star adults-only resort known for its lush gardens, swim-up bars, and gourmet dining, had reached near capacity for Memorial Day weekend. Guests were seen gathering in temporary shelters provided by the nearby Dreams Palm Beach and Now Larimar resorts, both part of the AMR Collection, the same hospitality group that manages Secrets properties.
In a statement issued midday Sunday, AMR Collection expressed its gratitude for the swift response of first responders and confirmed that all affected guests would be accommodated at sister resorts or provided with flights home at no cost.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and grateful that no lives were lost. Our priority now is ensuring the comfort, safety, and well-being of our guests and staff,” the statement read.
Investigations and Rebuilding
The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism, in coordination with fire marshals and electrical engineers, has launched a full investigation. Authorities have stated that the resort was last inspected in January 2025 and met all building and fire safety codes at that time.
Nonetheless, questions are already being raised about the vulnerability of thatched roof designs prevalent in Caribbean resorts, which, while aesthetically appealing, may pose fire hazards if not properly treated or maintained.
Tourism Minister David Collado visited the scene Sunday afternoon, stating, “This is a tragic event, but we are grateful it did not result in loss of life. We will work closely with AMR Collection to assess the damage, determine the cause, and support the rebuilding process.”
Local economic analysts estimate the damage could exceed $45 million, considering the loss of bookings, structural destruction, and restoration efforts.
Community Reaction
The Punta Cana community has rallied around the displaced guests and resort workers, with local businesses and residents offering food, clothing, and shelter. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, with hashtags like #PrayForPuntaCana and #SecretsStrong trending regionally.
“This resort is not just a tourist spot — it’s a cornerstone of our local economy,” said Maria Contreras, owner of a nearby souvenir shop. “We stand with the workers and the guests. We will rebuild together.”
Looking Ahead
Though the future of Secrets Royal Beach remains uncertain, AMR Collection has pledged to rebuild. Structural engineers and architects are expected to begin assessments this week. Depending on the extent of the damage, partial reopening could take months, with full restoration possibly stretching into late 2026.
Guests with upcoming reservations are being contacted and offered full refunds or transfers to other AMR properties.
For those who’ve visited before, Secrets Royal Beach holds a special place — a sanctuary of romance, tranquility, and indulgence. Now, it’s also a testament to resilience and community spirit in the face of disaster.